April 22, 2025

The International Handicrafts Fair returns to the Fortezza da Basso

In Florence a journey into creativity and high craftsmanship from 25 April to 1 May

From 25 April to 1 May, the Fortezza da Basso in Florence will host the 89th edition of MIDA - Mostra Internazionale dell'Artigianato, a reference point for those who look at craftsmanship as a cultural heritage and a driver of innovation. An edition that confirms the international vocation of the event with 530 exhibitors from all over Italy and about 30 countries around the world, from China to Peru.

MIDA presents itself as an immersive journey through unique objects, precious materials and stories of skilled hands, capable of attracting thousands of visitors every year - 65,000 in 2024 alone - including enthusiasts, professionals and young designers.

The Spadolini Pavilion will be the beating heart of the fair, with proposals ranging from ceramics to jewellery, from tailoring to designer furniture, without forgetting the excellence of taste. While in the central square, street food and specialities from all over the world will be on offer, including show-cooking and tastings.

One of the most eagerly awaited focuses will be Artefacendo, organised by CNA Florence, with over 70 enterprises representing Italian artistic craftsmanship. Every day, live demonstrations and an award voted by the public will celebrate the excellence of Made in Italy. Also signed by CNA, the FRAGMENTA and IN CONVERSAZIONE initiatives will highlight the creative dialogue between master goldsmiths and young talents.

At the Palazzina Lorenese, Pezzi Unici di Confartigianato Firenze proposes a review of contemporary craftsmanship as an unrepeatable art form. While in the Sala della Volta, the exhibition CON.TE.NE.RE (curated by OMA and ADI Toscana) investigates the theme of containment through objects that hold memories and meanings.

Space is also given to the Handicraft Gallery in the Cavaniglia Pavilion, to international collaborations - such as the one with the Emirate of Sharjah - and to the future of jewellery with the Preziosa Young exhibition by LAO - Le Arti Orafe. Here, in addition to exhibitions and demonstrations, it will be possible to try your hand at creating a piece of jewellery under the guidance of a master.

Among the many side initiatives, there will be the Firenze Forma Continua didactic itineraries, dedicated to the urban history of the Tuscan capital, and the Firenze Città del Restauro (Florence City of Restoration) project, with meetings on the conservation and enhancement of the artistic heritage.

Last but not least, there will be the Officine Esperienziali (Experiential Workshops), with workshops, guided tours and cooking shows open to the public upon reservation.

At the same time, Abita, the expo dedicated to the world of the home, furniture and services for living, with exhibitors, workshops and meetings in the spaces of the Arsenal, the Basilica and the Fureria, is also back.

Exhibition information
Opening hours: daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Open air catering: daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. (last day 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.)
Open-air catering: daily from 8 to 10 p.m. (1 May closes at 8 p.m.)

For all information, prices and reductions see www.mostrartigianato.it.